Hey, I’m Ashley!
I’m a proud Anishinaabe Ikwe, mother, and the founder of Turtle Tours. My roots run deep across Treaty 1, 2, and 4 territories. I carry forward the story of my ancestor, John “The Falcon” Tanner, a man who walked between 2 worlds, lived among the Anishinaabe, and played a key role in the 1817 Selkirk Treaty. His story, and the stories of our people, are what inspire the work I do today.
I’m also the founder of Turtle Village, the first Indigenous tourism destination in Riding Mountain National Park, and CEO of Grass Grows Rivers Flow, a nonprofit committed to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, culture, and land-based learning through tourism.
Turtle Tours was born out of a desire to share our history from our perspective through story, place, and lived experiences. Our connection to the land in a way that’s true, respectful, and led by us as Indigenous people. These tours aren’t just about learning, they're about relationships.
Through Turtle Tours, I’ve had the honour of building experiences in partnership with other authentic Indigenous operators across Manitoba. Together, we’re creating something meaningful rooted in authenticity and community.
When you walk with us, you’re not just taking a tour, you're stepping into a story that’s still being lived on Turtle Island.
Founder & Lead Guide – Turtle Tours
Founder of Turtle Village | CEO of Grass Grows Rivers Flow Foundation
Hey, I’m Salina!
Boozhoo! I’m Salina — an Indigenous entrepreneur, educator, and storyteller from Lake St. Martin First Nation (Bear Clan).
I’m Anishinaabe and Ukrainian, and I grew up on Treaty 2 Territory where the outdoors was my first teacher. The lakes, trees, and animals shaped the way I see the world and taught me connection, gratitude, and balance.
Before guiding, I worked in mental health and addictions — work that showed me the power of empathy, laughter, and meeting people exactly where they’re at. I carry those teachings with me into every tour.
For me, guiding is about creating space. A place where people can slow down, breathe, reflect, and find joy in the land and in each other’s stories.
I can’t wait to walk with you and share the beauty, humour, and teachings that have shaped my journey.
Tour Guide For Turtle Tours
Aniin! I’m Jaylee Smith, a proud Anishinaabe Ikwe from Gambler First Nation, raised on Treaty 4 territory. I grew up surrounded by culture, community, and entrepreneurship, supporting my family’s Indigenous tourism business and learning from strong leaders like Mother & my grandfather, Chief LeDoux.
I’m also a descendant of John “The Falcon” Tanner, a man who lived among the Anishinaabe. His story, and the stories of those who came before us, remind me how much we can still learn from the people who once walked these lands. Even though they are faded memories, we can still connect, through culture, through relationship, and through the stories being told.
As a tour guide, I’ve realized how important it is to share our history in our own words. I love being part of something that brings people together. I believe that in order to know where we’re going, we have to understand where we come from.
I’m also the social media manager behind Turtle Tours. Storytelling is my world. Whether it’s through a reel or a riverside walk, I believe in showing up for our people and helping others see the beauty, strength, and brilliance of Indigenous culture.
Tour Guide and Social Media Manager for Turtle Tours
Hey, I’m Jaylee!
Hey, I’m Jane!
Boozhoo!
I'm Jane Flett-McMahon, a proud Anishinaabe woman. I am a member of Couchiching First Nation with ties to Sandy Bay First Nation.
As an Indigenous tour guide at Turtle Tours, I carry with me the history, teachings, and stories of my very own ancestors.
The land is our very first “guide”. Every river, tree and stone holds a story and I’m passionate about sharing these teachings.
This tour is more than just an opportunity to experience The Forks and all its beauty, it is a space for learning, connection, community and reflection.
Together, we walk with respect for the land, the water, and all living beings, guided by the knowledge passed down through generations.
I’m honoured to be part of this path toward understanding and reconciliation.
I invite you to join me in exploring the spirit of Turtle Island!
Tour Guide for Turtle Tours
Boozhoo!! My name is Chris and I am a bilingual Anishinaabe and Métis guide, born and raised in Winnipeg. My identity is woven from the two founding cultures of this land, and I am passionate about telling our stories from our perspective.
I was raised on the daring exploits of our heroes, like Chief Peguis and Tommy Prince. For me, history wasn't just in books; it was alive in my family. I am a descendant of historical figures from both sides of my heritage—Anishinaabe and Métis—who knew each other well and whose interactions shaped the land we stand on today.
I live this deep connection to my history every day by rooting it in the land itself. Traditional practices like hunting, fishing, and foraging are my way of listening, learning, and maintaining my relationship with Aki (the land) and the stories it holds.
My work as a guide is born from this. It is my mission to share these complex, powerful histories in a way that’s true and respectful. I strive to move beyond textbook facts and connect people to the living, breathing culture that surrounds us.
Walking with me is an invitation to connect with the land through the stories that shaped it. Together, we will step into a history that is still being written today.
Tour Guide and Ice Fishing Guide for Turtle Tours
Hey, I’m Chris!
Hey, I’m Ella!
Boozhoo! I’m Ella Flett-McMahon, a proud Anishinaabe woman, educator-in-training, and lifelong student of history.
As a history major and student teacher, I’ve always been drawn to the stories of this land—especially the layered histories of Winnipeg and The Forks.
My work is guided by the belief that education is reconciliation, and that when we share our histories in our own voices, we create the understanding and respect that our communities deserve.
I carry a deep love for my people and for the power of story.
Guiding tours allows me to bring history to life in the very places it happened, connecting the past to the present, while encouraging our guests to reflect. Each walk is an act of remembrance and honor, a way to ensure that Indigenous histories are not just heard, but felt.
Tour Guide & History Major
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